Liverpool are eyeing a January bid for Southampton defender Virgil van Dijk, but it looks like they’re not alone in their pursuit of the St Mary’s star.
Everton are also keen, but it appears one club is miles ahead in the race.
According to the Independent, former Newcastle striker Micky Quinn believes he has inside information that the Reds will “blow them (Everton) out of the water” when they make a bid in January.
Everton are supposedly nouveau-riche, but the summer transfer window saw little real evidence of that money, Yannick Bolasie and Ashley Williams hardly the kind of signings Toffees fans were expecting after their takeover.
Van Dijk would be a huge addition, as he’s been at the heart of Southampton’s rock solid defence.
Of course, even apart from their financial capabilities, Liverpool also have another advantage over their Merseyside rivals. Sadio Mane and Adam Lallana are already at Anfield, so the former Saints duo could be key to tempting the Dutchman to move.
If Everton are beaten on this one, it’s easy enough for them to pursue other targets – but what is concerning is that it will be a statement of intent from Liverpool if they get their man, and the wait goes on for something similar to happen at Goodison Park.
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